Trails closed to ATVs in Cle Elum Ranger District of national forest

CLE ELUM  Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest officials are prohibiting ATVs from using Cle Elum Ranger District trails until June 15.

District off-road manager Mikki Douglass said the closure is necessary to protect natural resources during spring run-off and precipitation.

Trails will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis., Douglass said. Once a trail has dried out and maintenance is completed, it could be opened prior to June 15.

Trails opened to ATV use prior to June 15 will have "Trail Open" signs at trailheads, Douglass said.

National Forest Lands are extremely fragile during the spring melt and run off, forest officials said. Trails, as well as roads and the surrounding lands are vulnerable to damage from motorized vehicles.

Forest officials said closing the trails mitigates the need for some repairs.